US has discovered gaps in China's East China Sea air identification zone most probably by employing RC-135 Rivet Joint intelligence gathering aircraft. (Photo: US Air Force)

By: Wendell Minnick (www.defensenews.com)

Only days after China declared an air defense identification zone on Nov. 23 over the East China Sea, the US Air Force flew two B-52 bombers over the area in what appeared to be a challenge to China’s claim.A former US Air Force official is suggesting this was a message of deterrence to Beijing that the US is aware of China’s weak links along its air defense network.

The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye officially became ready for tasking with Airborne Early Warning Squadron 125 (VAW-125) during a ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk Chambers Field, March 27.

"This is a revolutionary jump in capabilities," said Capt. Todd Watkins, commander, Airborne Command Control and Logistics Wing. "The E-2D serves as the eyes of the fleet. If it's out there, we will see it."

Aster 30 in a firing test. The system can engage hostile aircraft in ranges between 3 to 120 kilometer. (Photo: MBDA/DGA EM)

By: Chris Pocock (www.ainonline.com)

Singapore is buying Thales Raytheon Systems GroundMaster 200 radars, adding to an already-extensive ground-based air defense (GBAD) line-up of systems. A development radar, mounted on a Man 8 x 8 truck, was on display in the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) static display at the Singapore Airshow this week. The nearby RSAF pavilion contained graphics that confirmed the island state’s purchase of MBDAAster 30 air defense missiles.

The Republic of Singapore Air Force has displayed its Shikra radar – based on the ThalesRaytheonSystems (TRS) Ground Master (GM) 200 - on-board an 8x8 vehicle at the Singapore Air Show, thus confirming the purchase of the air defence radar system.

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